Transfer plate between conveyor belts with variable adjustment

Description

1 / 9 “TRANSFER PLATE BETWEEN CONVEYOR BELTS WITH VARIABLE ADJUSTMENT”. FIELD OF APPLICATION

[001] This utility model application refers to a transfer plate between conveyor belts with variable adjustment, applicable to the field of devices for closing transfers between conveyor belts, intended to provide functional improvement in the protection of moving parts, reducing risks to operators and ensuring the continuity of product transport, drastically reducing the risk of damage to packaging, product loss, tangles and production stoppages. STATE OF THE ART

[002] Conveyor belts are widely used equipment in industry to facilitate the continuous and efficient transport of products from one point to another. Among the patent documents related to the sector, noteworthy are BR112015009295-0, which describes a conveyor system designed to facilitate the restricted transfer of products from a low-tension conveyor belt, and BRPI0707393A2, which presents a conveyor belt with rollers supported between modules.

[003] However, these models did not solve the problems related to the closure and joining of two conveyor belts. To mitigate this limitation, several transfer closure solutions were developed and marketed, such as Flexco transfer plates, Intralox scrapers, Ibraflex scrapers, and customized sheet metal guards. However, these solutions have limitations regarding compatibility with different conveyor systems and require structural modifications for installation. Petition 870250013788, dated 20 / 02 / 2025, page 5 / 29 2 / 9

[004] The author sought to innovate and solve compatibility problems with different conveyor systems. The main differences, advantages and innovations of the solution proposed here stem from the fact that, unlike conventional transfer plates, which are only compatible with proprietary profiles, the variable adjustment transfer plate allows its installation in standardized v-slot profiles, enabling its application in any conveyor.

[005] Furthermore, unlike solutions available on the market, which require modifications to the equipment structure, this system uses the bearings of the conveyor head rollers themselves to fix the support structure, ensuring the ideal installation distance.

[006] Another significant difference compared to solutions like those from Flexco is the dynamic and variable adjustment capability of the model proposed here, provided by the transfer comb format. In this way, a single element size is able to accommodate variations in the conveyor belt stretching distance without needing to change the component's position. This ensures that the element always remains below the upper plane of the conveyor belt, ensuring that it does not interfere with the transfer of products.

[007] Because it does not come into contact with the conveyor belts, the element does not suffer wear from abrasion and friction, which increases its durability.

[008] The main technical innovation of this system compared to existing solutions on the market is its ability to adapt to different distances between tracks without the need for multiple parts of different sizes. While conventional models require the replacement of components according to the variation in the position of the tensioners, the proposed solution allows for a wide range of distances without the need for manual adjustments. Petition 870250013788, dated 20 / 02 / 2025, page 6 / 29 3 / 9

[009] In current practice, frequent adjustments of the belt tensioning rollers are necessary, often leading the operator to modify the position of these rollers, thus altering the distances between the belts. Conventional solutions, such as those from Flexco, require repositioning and, depending on the variation, demand the replacement of components to guarantee the protection of the transfer. The model proposed here is independent of the variation of the tensioners, because, due to its transfer comb shape, the element is able to absorb these changes in position without the need for replacement or manual adjustment.

[010] Furthermore, in long conveyors, conveyor belt misalignment is common due to the geometry of the conveyor belt, which often does not exhibit ideal parallelism. In these cases, the conveyor belts may require different tensions on each side, causing the rollers to not be completely parallel. Conventional protective elements cannot absorb this variation, limiting their application to belts with more rigid alignment. The utility model now proposed solves this technical problem through its specific transfer comb shape, capable of accommodating tension differences between the sides of the belts, ensuring effective protection even when the end rollers are not completely aligned, resulting in significant functional improvement.

[011] The innovative design of the transfer comb fingers of the element required here allows for installation with variable adjustment, adapting to the different tensioning distances of the conveyor rollers. In addition, its design allows for installation between straight and inclined conveyors, as well as on conveyors with misalignment in the tensioner rollers. Petition 870250013788, dated 20 / 02 / 2025, page 7 / 29 4 / 9

[012] Finally, constructive variations can be applied to the model required here, including versions with widths greater than those presented, allowing the use of larger parts. Additionally, adaptations can be developed with different canvas gripping curvatures for compatibility with rollers of different diameters, as well as versions with longer fingers for application in transfers with significantly greater distances. OBJECTIVES OF THE UTILITY MODEL

[013] Its aim is to reduce product loss by significantly minimizing the dropping of products, packages and flyers during transfers between conveyor belts, ensuring greater transport efficiency.

[014] Another objective is to eliminate mechanical risks and prevent the accidental insertion of fingers, hands and limbs into the transfer rollers of conveyor belts, increasing operational safety.

[015] Another objective is to facilitate the replacement of components and allow for the quick exchange of damaged elements through quick couplings, reducing downtime for maintenance and ensuring the continuity of protection and safety in transfers between conveyors.

[016] Another objective is to ensure universal compatibility by using a single transfer comb model capable of adjusting to different track configurations, regardless of variations in headstock stretch distances, due to its variable adjustment mechanism.

[017] Another objective is to reduce the need for multiple protective devices to minimize the requirement for stocks of different Petition 870250013788, dated 20 / 02 / 2025, page 8 / 29 5 / 9 sizes of protective devices, providing a standardized and flexible solution for various applications.

[018] Another objective is to ensure the ideal position of the protective element by incorporating a support coupled to the roller bearing, guaranteeing the appropriate distance of the element in relation to the conveyor belt, keeping it in the ideal position to avoid blockages in the passage of flyers, boxes, packages and other products.

[019] Another objective is to minimize component wear by designing the system so that it does not directly touch the conveyor belt, reducing wear on both the belt and the protective elements, increasing the durability of the assembly. DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[020] The attached drawings show the transfer plate between conveyor belts with variable adjustment which, together with the detailed numerical references below, allow for a better understanding of the model. Although this may present variations in its constructive forms, always customized for each specific application, such variations do not alter the inventive concept and are not represented in the drawings described below.

[021] Figure 1 shows a perspective view with enlarged details of the ends of the joining plate.

[022] Figure 2 shows a view of the assembly of the connecting plate.

[023] Figure 3 shows a top view of the joining plate.

[024] Figure 4 shows a view of the front conveyor belt joined to the rear conveyor belt by means of the connecting plate. Petition 870250013788, dated 20 / 02 / 2025, page 9 / 29 6 / 9

[025] Figure 5 shows a side view of the transfer comb fitted into the base element.

[026] Figure 6 shows a perspective view of the transfer comb.

[027] Figure 7 shows a side view of the transfer comb.

[028] Figure 8 shows a top view of the transfer comb.

[029] Figure 9 shows a variant with minimum distance between the mounting elements of the connecting plate, in which no gap is visible under the maximum stretch condition between the front and rear tracks.

[030] Figure 10 shows a variant with maximum distance between the elements, exhibiting a visible gap, but completely protected and without access to moving parts, under the condition of minimum stretching between the front and rear tracks.

[031] Figure 11 shows a demonstration of the installation in a condition of rollers without parallelism (misaligned tension), showing that the connecting plate is able to protect the transfer without any gaps occurring. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE UTILITY MODEL

[032] According to the attached figures, the present utility model application comprises a front conveyor belt (1) and a rear conveyor belt (2), characterized by being joined and articulated to each other by means of the joining plate (3). This is formed by the assembly, alignment and fitting of the transfer combs (4), which couple laterally to each other and are fixed to the base element (5), being held on their opposite sides by the side closing elements (6). Petition 870250013788, dated 20 / 02 / 2025, page 10 / 29 7 / 9

[033] The transfer comb (4) has a smooth surface (41) and a set of fingers (42), separated from each other by gaps (43). The fingers (42), on their lower part, have a pair of snap-joint type quick couplings (44) in cantilever, allowing them to deflect and lock onto the base element (5). The pair of quick couplings (44) is spaced by a relief area (45), ensuring greater flexibility and adjustment.

[034] The base element (5) has fixing points (51) at the arrow ends (52), which function as support, fitting and locking elements for the quick couplings (44). The assembly of the transfer combs (4) to the base element (5) forms the connecting plate (3), allowing an articulation with variable adjustment between the front conveyor belt (1) and the rear conveyor belt (2). The base element (5) also has a pair of mounting points (53).

[035] Another constructive detail presented is that the assembly of the transfer combs (4) guarantees alignment and minimum distance between them, eliminating gaps even under conditions of maximum tension of both conveyors.

[036] The base element (5) has a curvature (46) that surrounds the conveyor belt tensioning roller, while its opposite part has anti-snag roundings (47), eliminating sharp edges and minimizing product snagging or entanglement points.

[037] The side closing elements (6), positioned at opposite ends of the base element (5), have a pair of quick couplings (61), allowing interlocking with the arrowheads (52) of the base element (5) and ensuring the firmness of the assembly.

[038] The configuration of the transfer combs (4) results in a smooth surface (41), ideal for product sliding. This surface can receive different types of finishes, such as texturing for Petition 870250013788, dated 20 / 02 / 2025, page 11 / 29 8 / 9 prevent product adhesion or reduce friction, as needed for the application.

[039] The transfer connecting plate (3) with variable adjustment allows the transfers to be closed and minimizes the spaces between the front conveyor belt (1) and the rear conveyor belt (2), ensuring dynamic distance adjustment. This makes it possible to reduce gaps to a minimum, ensuring complete protection against access to the moving parts of the belts and preventing winding and jamming points.

[040] The proposed model consists of a joining plate (3) formed by the assembly of the transfer combs (4) and the side closing elements (6) to the base element (5), with variable adjustment, allowing its installation in standardized v-slot profiles without the need for structural modification of the equipment. In addition, the support coupled to the roller bearing ensures the ideal distance of the element in relation to the upper plane of the conveyor belt. The transfer combs (4), with overlapping elements, allow absorbing variations in stretching distances without the need for constant adjustments or changes.

[041] The transfer comb design (4) allows a single element size to accommodate variations in conveyor distance without the need for manual adjustment, ensuring continuous protection. The attached support prevents the element from touching the conveyor belt, reducing abrasion wear and increasing the durability of the system.

[042] The transfer closure device between conveyor belts comprises a transfer comb-shaped element (4) with variable adjustment, in which the fixing support is coupled to the bearing of the conveyor belt rollers, allowing fixing without structural modification of the equipment. A single size of transfer comb (4) accommodates different belt stretching distances without Petition 870250013788, dated 20 / 02 / 2025, page 12 / 29 9 / 9 requires manual adjustment and is mounted using quick-release couplings that allow for easy replacement.

[043] The assembly that forms the connecting plate (3) does not touch the conveyor belt, which increases its durability and reduces wear from abrasion. In addition, it is compatible with straight, inclined and misaligned conveyors, in material handling systems used in industrial and logistics lines.

[044] The present utility model provides an innovative and efficient solution for closing transfers between conveyor belts, offering significant functional improvements in terms of operational safety, reduction of product losses, greater durability of components and flexibility of application in different conveyor configurations, representing a considerable technical advance compared to existing solutions on the market. Petition 870250013788, dated 20 / 02 / 2025, page 13 / 29

Claims

1) “TRANSFER PLATE BETWEEN CONVEYOR BELTS WITH VARIABLE ADJUSTMENT”, comprising a front conveyor belt (1) and a rear conveyor belt (2), characterized by: - ​​being joined and articulated to each other by means of a joining plate (3) formed by the assembly, alignment and fitting of transfer combs (4), which couple laterally to each other and are fixed to a base element (5), being held on their opposite sides by side closing elements (6). 2) “TRANSFER PLATE BETWEEN CONVEYOR BELTS WITH VARIABLE ADJUSTMENT, according to claim 1, characterized by the transfer comb (4): - having a smooth or non-stick surface (41); - having a set of fingers (42), separated from each other by gaps (43); - having a pair of snap-joint type quick couplings (44) in cantilever for locking to the base element (5); - having the pair of quick couplings (44) spaced by a relief area (45) that allows deflection for adjustment. 3) TRANSFER PLATE BETWEEN CONVEYOR BELTS WITH VARIABLE ADJUSTMENT, according to claim 1, characterized by the base element (5): - having fixing points (51) at the arrow ends (52), which function as support, fitting and locking elements for the quick couplings (44) and quick couplings (61); - having a curvature (46) configured to wrap around the belt tensioning roller; Petition 870250013788, dated 20 / 02 / 2025, page 14 / 29 2 / 3 - having a pair of mounting points (53); - having, on its opposite side, anti-snag roundings (47) that eliminate sharp edges to prevent product snagging. 4) TRANSFER PLATE BETWEEN CONVEYOR BELTS WITH VARIABLE ADJUSTMENT, according to claim 1, characterized by the side closing elements (6): - having a pair of quick couplings (61); - being positioned at opposite ends of the base element (5); - interlocking with the arrowhead ends (52) of the base element (5) to ensure the firmness of the assembly. 5) TRANSFER PLATE BETWEEN CONVEYOR BELTS WITH VARIABLE ADJUSTMENT, according to claim 1, characterized by the mounting of the transfer combs (4) to the base element (5), forming the connecting plate (3), allowing articulation with variable adjustment between the front conveyor belt (1) and the rear conveyor belt (2), guaranteeing alignment and minimum distance between the transfer combs (4), eliminating gaps even under conditions of maximum tension of both belts. 6) TRANSFER PLATE BETWEEN CONVEYOR BELTS WITH VARIABLE ADJUSTMENT, according to claim 1, characterized in that the connecting plate (3) intended for closing the transfer between conveyor belts is formed by the assembly of the transfer combs (4) and the side closing elements (6) to the base element (5), where: - the transfer combs (4) have a configuration with overlapping elements, allowing variable adjustment to absorb variations in stretching distances without the need for constant adjustments or changes; Petition 870250013788, dated 20 / 02 / 2025, page.15 / 29 3 / 3 - the base element (5) is configured for installation in standardized v-slot profiles, without the need for structural modification of the equipment, being equipped with a support coupled to the bearing of the conveyor belt rollers, guaranteeing the ideal distance of the assembly in relation to the upper plane of the conveyor belt, keeping the assembly without direct contact with the belt to reduce wear by abrasion. Petition 870250013788, dated 20 / 02 / 2025, page 16 / 29.

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